World Health Organization oral rehydration solution

WHO-ORS, World Health Organization Oral Rehydration Solution. 

Because of concerns about hypernatremia, physicians continue to hospitalize and intravenously correct fluid and electrolyte deficits in severe dehydration. Oral solutions are strongly recommended. In developing countries, the World Health Organization Oral Rehydration Solution (WHO-ORS) saves the lives of millions of children annually. 

For large outbreaks, oral rehydration solutions (ORS) are useful. Standardised World Health Organization (WHO) ORS sachets are available although a home-made version can be produced by adding 8 level teaspoons of table sugar and 1 level teaspoon of table salt to 1 litre of water. Antibiotic therapy can be useful for cholera treatment but does not shorten the disease course. Doxycycline 300 mg p.o. as a stat dose, or ciprofloxacin 250 mg p.o. b.d. for 3 days is recommended. Cryptosporidium infections are self-limiting and effective treatment is strictly supportive. 

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